In evaluating a client for the presence of gallbladder disease, the nurse would recognize that the client's statement most suggestive of this problem is
A) "I am having difficulty swallowing."
B) "I get a sharp, stabbing pain every time I take a deep breath or cough."
C) "I have a terrible pain in my stomach; it is so bad I can feel it in my shoulder."
D) "I have a very strong craving for fatty foods like bacon and eggs fried in butter."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most specific and characteristic manifestation of gallstone disease is pain, or biliary colic, which is caused by spasm of the biliary ducts as they try to dislodge stones. This pain usually follows the temporary obstruction of the gallbladder outlet. Characteristically, the pain starts in the upper midline area, and it may radiate around to the back and right shoulder blade, although some clients report that it passes straight through to the back and substernal areas.

In Evaluating a Client for the Presence of Gallbladder Disease